Government outlines future plans on Whistleblowing
Lord Callanan wrote to us following a recent meeting thanking WhistleblowersUK for our work and outlining the Government’s commitment to reviewing current whistleblowing laws and frameworks to better serve those speaking out against crime, corruption, and cover-up.
He explained that the Government is working hard, through many routes, to tackle the complex task of eradicating economic crime in the UK, especially within the London financial sector. The main thrust of the plan, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency (ECCT) Bill, will update UK financial law to meet the modern challenges presented by crypto assets and expand investigatory powers to the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), a prescribed body in the UK.
The Government has finally acknowledged that whistleblowing is an incredibly complex policy area, not just an employment issue as it is currently treated under UK law. We support the work being done and acknowledge that while frustratingly time consuming it is essential to take the time to get the new reforms right. WhistleblowersUK are encouraged by the progress being made and by our ongoing inclusion in discussions to shape future legislation.
WhistleblowersUK remains confident that the Government will adopt the Whistleblowing Bill championed by the APPG on Whistleblowing and by Baroness Susan Kramer who is championing her Private Members Bill in the House of Lords. The proposals present a full package of reform that will end the relently suppression of whistleblowers in the employment tribunals and the criminal gangs exploit this weakness at the expense of the British Taxpayer. The Whistleblowing Bill has the benefit of the expertise and support of leading academics, legal specialists and policy teams from around the world. The Office of the Whistleblower will protect every citizen raising concerns, sanction individuals and institutions who abuse whistleblowers, and educate the public on their rights and responsibilities in whistleblowing.
- Joseph Styles, WhistleblowersUK Team
